A Guide to Cleaning Your Hearing Aids
Maximizing Your Hearing Aid Experience:
by: Rixon Rouse, Au.D. Audiologist at San Francisco Hearing Center
How often should you clean your hearing aids? If you guessed something as frequent
as “daily” or “weekly” congratulations, you may already be an expert on cleaning your
hearing aids. If, however, you were unsure or have never cleaned your hearing aids at
home then this post may be just for you.
At the San Francisco Hearing Center, we believe that taking good care of your hearing
aids is an important and necessary step keeping them functioning at their full potential.
Just like any sophisticated electronic device, regular hearing aid cleaning and maintenance are
essential to ensure optimal performance, extend their lifespan, and ultimately, provide
you with the clearest, most consistent sound experience. Think of it as a small
investment of your time that pays you in better hearing every day!
Why is Cleaning Important?
Your hearing aids are constantly exposed to various elements such as earwax,
moisture, oils, and other debris. Over time, these can accumulate and create blockages
that interfere with the delicate microphones and receivers.
This can lead to:
- Reduced Sound Quality: Muffled sounds, crackling, or intermittent audio
- Decreased Performance: your hearing aids might not seem as powerful or clear
as they once were - Increased Repair Needs: Built-up debris can cause internal damage, leading to
repairs - Shorter Lifespan: Neglecting cleaning can significantly shorten the overall life of
your devices - Discomfort: Debris on earmolds or domes can irritate your ear.
The good news is that most of these issues are easily preventable with a simple,
consistent cleaning your hearing aids routine.
Regular Weekly Cleaning at Home
Consistency is key when it comes to hearing aid cleaning.
- Wash Your Hands: Always start with clean dry hands to avoid transferring more
dirt or oils onto your devices. - Visual Inspection: Hold your hearing aid up and visually inspect it for any visible
earwax or debris - Brush Away Debris: Use the small brush provided with your hearing aids (or a
very soft, clean toothbrush) to gently brush away any wax or skin particles from
the microphone ports, receiver, and vent. Brush downwards to allow debris to fall
away. - Wipe Gently: Use soft, dry cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, to wipe down the
entire surface of your hearing aid. For behind the ear style hearing aids make
sure to wipe down the earmold or dome. If the dome has significant build up you
can opt to replace the dome with a new one instead. For custom in the ear style
devices gently wipe the casing.
Important Do’s and Don’ts when cleaning your hearing aids:
DO Store in a Dry Place: When not in use always store your hearing aids
in their case, charger, or a designated drying kit.
DO Charge your batteries: For rechargeable devices, leave them on the
charger overnight each evening.
DO Change your Batteries: If your device uses zinc air disposable
batteries, make sure to change them regularly. Depending on your battery
size and power of your prescriptions you may need to change your
batteries every few days to weekly.
DO Handle with Care: Always hold your hearing aids over a table to
prevent damage if dropped.
DON’T Use Alcohol or Solvents: These can damage the delicate
components and casing of your hearing aids.
DON’T Use Sharp Objects: Avoid using pins, needles or other sharp
objects to clean ports, as you can easily damage the internal components
DON’T Expose to Extreme Temperatures: Avoid leaving your hearing ids
in direct sunlight, in a hot car, or in extremely cold conditions.
DON’T Perform Inconsistent Cleaning: Debris, oils, and wax build up
over time which regular consistent cleaning prevents.
Get a Professional Deep Cleaning at San Francisco Hearing Center
At your regular check-up visits at San Francisco Hearing Center your Audiologist or
hearing aid specialist will more deeply clean your devices. We have specialized tools to
clean stubborn build up and to more thoroughly dry them out if moisture is the problem.
These services can give you peace of mind and keep your devices sounding brilliant.
By spending a few minutes each week cleaning your hearing aids, you’ll ensure they
continue to provide you with the best possible hearing experience. If you ever have
questions or need assistance with cleaning or maintenance, please don’t hesitate to
contact us at the San Francisco Hearing Center. We’re always ready to help you hear
your best.
Did you know? If you purchased your hearing aids from San Francisco Hearing Center, there is no additional charge to get your hearing aids cleaned by a member of our team. To schedule an appointment call 415-346-6886 or book online.
